A synovial biopsy is the removal of a piece of tissue lining a joint. The tissue is called the synovial membrane.

Alternative Names:

Biopsy - synovial membrane

How the test is performed:

The test may be done in your health care provider's office. The joint to be biopsied will be positioned precisely so the doctor can easily reach it.

The health care provider will inject a numbing medicine (local anesthetic) into the area.An instrument called a trocar is inserted into the joint space. This tool helps push fluid out of the area. A biopsy needle is inserted through the trocar and turned to cut out a tissue segment.

The tools are removed. The biopsy site is cleaned, and pressure and bandage are applied.

This procedure may also be performed in a hospital using arthroscopy .